Maple News reports that Canada has unveiled its ambitious 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan, targeting a record number of new permanent residents over the next three years. The plan outlines the highest immigration targets in Canadian history, demonstrating the country’s commitment to economic growth, population sustainability, and multicultural development despite global uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the plan, Canada aims to welcome:
– 401,000 new permanent residents in 2021
– 411,000 in 2022
– 421,000 in 2023
This represents a major increase from Canada’s recent immigration numbers and marks the first time the country has targeted such high levels since 1913, when 401,000 immigrants were admitted. In modern history, immigration levels have typically hovered below 350,000 annually.
The strategy is designed to fuel Canada’s economic recovery and long-term prosperity. Approximately 60% of newcomers will be admitted through economic immigration pathways, including the flagship Express Entry system and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These programs aim to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs to regions across the country, addressing labor shortages and boosting innovation.
The announcement follows earlier 2020 plans to welcome over one million new residents between 2020 and 2022. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced Canada to temporarily close its borders, resulting in significantly lower-than-expected immigration levels for 2020. Nonetheless, Express Entry and PNP invitations have continued steadily throughout the crisis, and Canada is on track to set a new annual record for Express Entry invitations issued.
Canada’s immigration plan also includes allocations for family reunification, refugee protection, and humanitarian admissions, underlining the country’s inclusive and compassionate immigration framework. Each year, the Immigration Levels Plan is a cornerstone policy document that defines Canada’s demographic and economic priorities.
With global migration trends disrupted by the pandemic, Canada’s strong stance on immigration signals confidence in a skilled and diverse population as a long-term economic asset. For those looking to make Canada their home, the upcoming years may offer more opportunities than ever before.